What is the therapeutic process called when a symptom is given a name to separate the client from the problem?

The therapeutic process referred to in the question is externalization. This concept is rooted in narrative therapy and serves a vital purpose in helping clients view their problems from a new perspective. By giving a name to the symptom or issue, the therapist assists the client in distinguishing themselves from the problem. This separation fosters the idea that the problem does not define the individual's identity, promoting a more empowering narrative.

Externalization allows clients to engage with their issues more objectively, enabling them to explore how the problem affects their lives and relationships without labeling themselves as inherently flawed or troubled. This approach encourages individuals to recognize that they have the agency to change their relationship with the issue, often leading to deeper insights and more effective coping strategies.

In contrast, co-construction typically refers to the collaborative nature of therapeutic conversations, where both client and therapist work together to shape understanding and meaning. Problem determination focuses more on identifying specific challenges rather than separating them from the individual. Solution-oriented therapy emphasizes finding solutions and setting goals, which might not specifically address the process of naming and externalizing the problem as a means of differentiation.